Two researchers from the Institute of Plant Biochemistry and Photosynthesis (IBVF-CSIC/University of Seville), Dr. Ángeles Aroca and Dr. Luis C. Romero, have participated in an international study that reveals an innovative mechanism to promote longevity and healthy aging in mammals. The work, published in the prestigious journal Cell Metabolism, shows that the non-enzymatic generation of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) from natural compounds present in garlic can extend lifespan and improve metabolic, locomotor, and cognitive health in mice.
The study, led by the team of Alejandro Martín-Montalvo (CABIMER), demonstrates that chronic administration of diallyl sulfide compounds increases sustained H₂S production, a gasotransmitter with antioxidant and metabolic regulatory functions. This increase translates into an 11.4% extension of the animals’ average lifespan, together with significant improvements in glucose regulation, motor function, and neurocognitive parameters.
The contribution of the IBVF was essential in the analysis of post-translational protein modifications through persulfidation, a key mechanism by which H₂S exerts its biological effects. These modifications have been linked to redox signaling processes and to the regulation of metabolic pathways involved in aging.
In addition, the study includes data in humans suggesting that higher levels of protein persulfidation are associated with greater muscle strength and lower triglyceride concentrations, reinforcing the physiological relevance of this mechanism. This finding opens new perspectives for the development of nutritional and pharmacological strategies based on natural compounds that could contribute to healthy aging.
Article reference:
Enhanced non-enzymatic H₂S generation extends lifespan and healthspan in male mice. Cell Metabolism, 2025.
Cáliz-Molina, M.Á., López-Fernández-Sobrino, R., Pino-Pérez, I., Panadero-Morón, C., Vilches-Pérez, M.d.C., Camacho-Cabrera, M., García-Ruiz, A., Pérez-Rosendo, L., Espadas, I., Sola-García, A., Soriano-Navarro, M., Martin, F., Venegas-Calerón, M., Salas, J.J., Martínez-Force, E., Romero, L.C., Aroca, Á., González-Prieto, R., Bernabeu-Wittel, M., Capilla-González, V., Hine, C., and Martín-Montalvo, A. (2025). Enhanced non-enzymatic H2S generation extends lifespan and healthspan in male mice. Cell Metabolism.